Maximus, played by Russell Crowe

Description

Maximus is a popular and powerful general in the Roman army. The Emperor Marcus Aurelius has begun to think of a Maximus as a second son, and because his own son is not worthy, Marcus Aurelius wants Maximus to lead Rome after his death.

Maximus at first does not want to take on the challenge of leadership. His greatest goal is to return home to his family whom he misses greatly. His wife and son are all-important to him, and though he loves Rome and the Emperor, he is ready to return to them. However, terrible events cause the death of his family and eventually his own death alone in Rome.

Analysis

Maximus is a strong, brave man whose life is destroyed by the envy of Commodus, the Emperor's son. Marcus Aurelius seems to love Maximus more than Commodus and wants him to...